Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Frederick B., Theodore R. and James H. Haddad Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports graduating high school seniors and college undergraduates from Windham County. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to empower local students in pursuing their educational goals. Preference is given to students attending Yale University, reflecting the foundation's commitment to fostering academic excellence in the region.

The Jake T. Watson Memorial Scholarship, established by friends and family, honors a young man who lived life passionately until his untimely passing at 25. Offering approximately $500, this scholarship supports students pursuing post-secondary education in tree work, forestry, or environmental fields, with a preference for graduates from Robert E. Fitch Senior High School. The fund reflects a commitment to nurturing future generations in sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

The John E. Boyle, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, established by the Portuguese Holy Ghost Society, honors the legacy of John E. Boyle, Jr., a dedicated Air Force veteran and community member. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Groton, Ledyard, Stonington, and North Stonington pursuing studies in law, criminal justice, applied sciences, trades, sports management, or sport sciences. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

The Sharon E. Burrows Scholarship, established in memory of Sharon Burrows, supports graduating high school seniors from New London County. Eligible students must be in good academic standing, demonstrate financial need, and pursue post-secondary studies in visual and applied arts or culinary arts. Since 1983, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students achieve their educational and career goals.

The Connecticut Recreational Trails Program Grants, established by the DEEP in 2015, provides funding for trail projects to support both motorized and non-motorized trails. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and tribal governments. Grants can cover up to 80% of project costs, with a maximum request of 1 million dollars. Key focus areas include trail construction, maintenance, accessibility for disabled individuals, and educational programs promoting safety and environmental protection.

The Connecticut Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through innovative projects. With over $6.8 million allocated to support 65 projects, the program encourages applications that address industry needs, including new priority areas focused on diversity and inclusion. Eligible specialty crops range from fruits and vegetables to honey and processed foods made from at least 50% specialty ingredients. This initiative plays a crucial role in strengthening Connecticut's agricultural sector.

The Laura B. Seder Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial assistance to students from Norwich attending accredited colleges or universities. Established in memory of Laura B. Seder, a dedicated lawyer and community member, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of legal studies. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support local students in achieving their educational and career goals.

The Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program, offered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, provides essential funding for municipalities and nonprofit organizations to purchase land for conservation and recreational purposes. This program prioritizes projects that demonstrate high conservation value and leverage additional funding sources. It also supports distressed municipalities, fostering community gardens and green spaces, thereby enhancing the environment and public access to natural areas.

The American Savings Foundation offers Graduate School Scholarships to past ASF Scholars pursuing degrees in education, social work, or related fields, with a preference for those studying in Connecticut. This initiative underscores the Foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare through educational support, fostering academic advancement among local students, and contributing to the overall improvement of the region's quality of life.

The Rose & Abraham Lubchansky Scholarship, established by family and friends of the late community leaders, supports New London High School graduates who demonstrate excellence in civics and government. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing a bachelor's degree, fostering the next generation of civic-minded individuals. Since 1983, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students achieve their educational goals and build rewarding careers.

The CTBF: Eager to Learn Grant Program provides essential support for college test preparation and promotes access to trade schools. Aimed at empowering students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, the program funds organizations that enhance SAT and ACT scores and offer mentorship. Grants, capped at $25,000, focus on equitable opportunities in education, ensuring all students can pursue their optimal paths, whether through college or vocational training.

The Robert L. Howard, Jr. Scholarship, established in memory of Robert L. Howard Jr. by his wife Heidi, supports students attending a 4-year college or university. Eligible candidates are those who demonstrate good character and community service, with a preference for motocross riders and members of the Central Cycle Club in Central Village, CT. Since 1983, the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students pursue education and rewarding careers.

The Rita & Myron Hendel Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, aims to support New London residents graduating from New London High School. This scholarship targets motivated students demonstrating financial need, providing approximately $4,000 over four years to help them pursue their educational goals. With over $11.9 million awarded since 1983, the foundation emphasizes philanthropy to foster a sustainable and thriving community.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Connecticut provide essential funding opportunities for small and emerging businesses in rural areas. With two types of grants available—Opportunity and Enterprise—these funds can be utilized for various projects, including technical assistance, feasibility studies, and community economic development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities, such as towns and nonprofit corporations. The program aims to enhance the economic landscape while prioritizing smaller requests for funding.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Laura Fish-Kelly Scholarship, established by financial advisor Laura Fish-Kelly, supports female students from Windham County pursuing business-related studies at accredited colleges. It is part of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, which has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships since 1983. This scholarship aims to help students with financial need achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The RADM David M. Goebel, USN Leadership Award, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, recognizes New London graduates who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in areas such as academics, athletics, or public service, particularly in overcoming adversity. Since its inception, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting students in their pursuit of education and career goals.

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

The Marjory B. and Laurence P. "Jim" Smith Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, offers $12,000 over four years to outstanding students with financial need from East Lyme, Robert Fitch, Montville, New London, and Waterford High Schools. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting local students in their pursuit of education and career aspirations.

The Philip A. Turner Scholarship, established by friends and family in memory of Philip A. Turner, supports New London students involved with the Rotary Club of New London's Interact organization. Eligible applicants must be planning to major in Business or a related field, maintain good academic standing, and demonstrate financial need. A secondary preference is given to Norwich Free Academy students committed to community service. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships.

The Eric Evans Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports residents of New London County planning to attend Syracuse University, with a preference for graduates of Saint Bernard High School. Established to promote educational pursuits, this scholarship contributes significantly to local students' academic journeys, fostering a brighter future in the region. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, demonstrating its commitment to educational excellence and community development.

The Ernest W. & Elizabeth K. Cone Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students pursuing education at technical or trade schools. Preference is given to residents of Norwich, Windham County, and Tolland County. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, fostering educational opportunities and career development for local students. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to philanthropy and community growth.

The Esther & Lucie Harmon and Leta Sabin Trepal Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports Eastford residents pursuing post-secondary education in any field. This fund particularly encourages non-traditional students returning to education, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement and strong character. Since 1983, the Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, reflecting its commitment to enriching the lives of local students and fostering educational success.

The Fletcher Family Scholarship, established by Dr. Bettye R. Fletcher in 1996, supports graduating high school seniors from various towns in Eastern Connecticut, including East Lyme and Groton. With a focus on strong academic standing, this scholarship considers financial need and prioritizes African American students. Since its inception, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million from numerous funds to help students pursue education and rewarding careers.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

The NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS) supports junior and senior undergraduate geology students in the NE Section, honoring Angelo Tagliacozzo's legacy. Established in 1986, the scholarship aims to encourage young geologists to pursue careers in geological sciences. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited programs, on track for required credit hours, and can only receive the scholarship once. This initiative fosters early engagement with AIPG, emphasizing professional affiliation and support for the next generation of geologists.